How to Use Epsom Salt on Open Wounds

by
WENDY ROSE GOULD Last Updated: Aug 16, 2013

Wendy Rose Gould

Wendy Rose Gould is a professional journalist who has contributed to "Glamour" magazine and the Huffington Post, among other publications. After internships at the "Indianapolis Business Journal," "Kiwanis International" and "NUVO Newsweekly," she earned BA degrees in journalism and philosophy from Franklin College in 2008. Gould specializes in lifestyle topics.

Epsom salt can help alleviate symptoms from wounds.Photo Credit Salt image by lefebvre_jonathan from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Epsom salt has dozens of household uses that range from gardening to physical and mental health. According to licensed acupuncturist Duane Law, Epsom salt can even be used to treat open wounds. You must be careful when using Epsom salt as a wound healing agent as it can potentially lead to more problems, most notably magnesium poisoning or a dried out wound that prolongs the healing process. However, when used properly, the wounded person may begin to feel better within a few hours.

Step 1

Mix 8 cups of hot water and 1 cup of Epsom salt in a large mixing bowl. You can increase the amounts to fit your specific needs, but be sure to keep the ratio of 1 part Epsom salt to 8 cups water.

Step 2

Stir the liquid with a spoon until the Epsom salt dissolves. As long as the water is hot, the salt should dissolve within 10 to 15 seconds.

Step 3

Submerge the wound in the Epsom salt solution. If the wound is on a part of the body that cannot be submerged, soak a washcloth in the Epsom salt solution and then press it against the wound.

Step 4

Remove the wound from the Epsom salt after 10 minutes. The salt may dry out the wound if exposed for too long.

Step 5

Repeat the process three times per day until the wound heals.

Warnings

See a doctor if you experience drowsiness, diarrhea, fatigue, heavy perspiration, hallucinations or unresponsiveness. All of these are signs of magnesium poisoning.

Things You'll Need

Large mixing bowl

Water

Epsom salt

Spoon

Washcloth

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